Japan Supports the Safety of IDPs, Refugees, Returnees, and Host Communities in Iraq

Baghdad, 12 March 2017 – A handover ceremony was held today to mark the completion of the project aimed at increasing and improving safety for IDPs, refugees, returnees and host communities through installation of solar street lights. The project was funded by the Government of Japan and implemented by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) in cooperation with the Government of Iraq. The installation of 680 solar street lights in different locations in the Salaheddine, Diyala, Kirkuk, and Baghdad governorates will benefit the internally displaced persons (IDPs) and thousands of refugees, returnees, and members of the host communities.

Representing the Baghdad Governorate and its Council, Ms. Mahdia Al Lamee – Member of the Council of Baghdad, stated that: “The installation of solar street lights in different areas in Baghdad Governorate contribute to the peace, stability and avoidance of violence in these areas. We look forward for further support to install more of these solar street lights in other areas in need. We value the efforts of the Government of Japan and UNOPS in implementing this project.”

“Humanitarian assistance, as well as stabilization, is the most urgent issue for Iraq at present. It is our pleasure that our country contributes to improvement of living conditions of IDPs and increasing safety inside the IDP camps in Iraq.” said Mr. Fumio Iwai, Ambassador of Japan to Iraq.” I would like to reaffirm Japan’s commitment to remaining a true ‘running partner’ of Iraq and to working together with Iraq towards a brighter future for coming generations of Iraq.”

“UNOPS is committed to supporting Iraq in its efforts to provide services to those displaced. We are also pleased to be able to, through this project, demonstrate how renewable energy and innovative solutions contribute to improving the lives of people in the affected communities,” stated Mazen Kaloti, UNOPS Chief Engineer and Site Manager.